The process of selling a car has changed drastically with the growth of online classified ads and auction sites.  Sure, it’s still possible to meet a buyer in person for him or her to test drive the car and finish negotiations… but these days a lot of buyers aren’t in the next zip code, or even the next area code.  The market for selling your classic has expanded, crossing state lines and even international borders.  In fact, with the demand for classic American cars rising in Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, you may have better luck selling your ride, at the price you want, to someone overseas.

So how do you get the car to that foreign buyer without too many entanglements, excessive costs, or damage during shipping?  Here are a few things to keep in mind so that you’ll come out ahead:

It’s All About the Benjamins – Get Yours!

If you’ve made a deal with an overseas buyer, getting paid before you ship the car is essential.  NEVER make arrangements to ship the car before finalizing the payment.  Payments are best done by wire transfer or through an online payment system, like Paypal.  That way you don’t have to worry about getting a check from overseas, which could bounce or be fraudulent.  Direct money transfers ensure you get the cash in your bank account, quick and easy, and they also prove the legitimacy of the buyer.

Shipping Costs – Pass ’em On

We generally suggest that shipping costs should be charged to the buyer.  Often times, this means you’ll need to find out their location up front so that you can tack the cost on to their payment.  You shouldn’t have to take responsibility for the charges, but that can always be a negotiating point.  Even if the buyer is paying for the shipping, you should make the shipping arrangements with a reputable transport company (like our friends at CFR Rinkens, Mainfreight, or Direct Express).  You’ll also need to make it clear – in writing – that you are not responsible for any damage done to the car during shipping.

Cooperation –  Work Together for a Smooth Process

Although you won’t be paying the shipping costs, and you won’t be responsible for damages, you still have to work closely with the buyer and shipping company to ensure that you follow all government regulations.  Some countries, including our own, have complicated tax laws and insurance issues that you don’t want to get tied up with.  Mistakes can make getting the car through customs a headache, and they can delay the shipment by weeks, or even months.  Your shipping agent will help you prepare the car for its voyage. The agent will also coordinate the pickup and delivery of the car.  Be sure to give the agent copies of all of the car’s documentation.

Shipping internationally may seem complicated… but once you get the hang of it, you could end up selling more overseas than you think.  And with our clientele, you can find both buyers from abroad AND international shipping companies all in one place!